Tourist trips to the Robben Island Museum have been put on hold due to a technical problem with the museum ferry, a museum spokesperson said on Wednesday.

"The Sikhululekile's gearbox cooling system developed an oil leak on Monday... owing to the technical problem, Robben Island Museum (RIM) regrets to announce that all tourist trips to the museum have been cancelled," said Dennis Cruywagen.

He said tests conducted by the vessel's manufacturer revealed that the cooler was badly cracked and had to be replaced as it could not be repaired.

"Spare parts are not available in South Africa and have been ordered from Germany. These parts are expected to arrive in South Africa within three days," said Cruywagen.

The ferry was expected to be working again on Monday.

Attempts by the museum to charter private boats had failed and vessels usually used in emergencies were also out of commission, Cruywagen said.

"Regrettably, the decision was taken to cancel all trips to Robben Island. The RIM wishes to apologise to all affected... refunds will be paid to tourists," he said.

Sapa

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